Bongo Movie Star Sajuki Dies In Dar

Sajuki, who has been sick for a time now, passed away early yesterday morning at the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in the city where he was admitted after falling down in Arusha where he had organised a fundraising performance.

Reports from Arusha says Sajuki fell down soon after standing before the crowd during a performance organised to raise money for taking him back to India for the second phase of his specialised medical treatment.

In May last year, the film icon was admitted at the Saifee Hospital in Mumbai, India following stomach tumor complications. Reports say he had recovered after the treatment, which was possible with generous contributions from legislators, the Tanzania Film Federation (TAFF), members of the media, government officials, just to mention few of them, who had donated Sh16 million and three air tickets for the trip.

MNH public relations officer, Mr Jezza Waziri, confirmed that the movie star had passed away earlier in the morning. “The mortuary in-charge has confirmed receipt of the artist’s body by 10:50 hours this morning… Since I only speak after getting official information, I can assure you that it is true, Sajuki has passed away,” he said.

Speaking at the mortuary entrance yesterday, family spokesman, who is also a Bongo movie actor, Mr Denis Sweya popularly known as Dinno, said Sajuki’s health suddenly deteriorated yesterday after he had breathing complications. “Emirates had agreed to arrange for special facilities when flying Sajuki to India, including provision of respiratory gaseous equipment recommended by the doctors…but God’s judgment was unquestionable,” said Dinno, who made Sajuki and Wastara best man and matron respectively during his marriage.

Mr Dinno later told mourners, who showed up in big number, most of whom were colleague artists, the artist would be buried at the Kisutu Cemetery tomorrow at 13 hours. Sajuki is survived with a widow and one child.

Meanwhile, the executive secretary of the National Arts Council (Basata), Mr Ghonche Materego, has sent a condolence message to the family of Sajuki.